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LAX to DTW Turbulence Forecast

Is the Los Angeles to Detroit flight turbulent? Live forecast & historical patterns.

Live forecast
LAX
→
DTW
Los Angeles · Detroit · 4h 17m
50
Turb Score
4h 17m
Duration
1,748 nm
Distance
35,000 ft
Cruise Alt.
Light
Typical
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Typical turbulence along the route

Historical average pattern for LAX–DTW

Smooth Light Moderate
0h1h2h3h4h5h6h4h 17m
Smooth
Light
Moderate
Heavy

About the LAX–DTW route

The Los Angeles to Detroit route crosses the Rocky Mountains — one of the most turbulent regions in North America. Mountain wave turbulence occurs when strong winds blow over mountain peaks, creating powerful invisible waves that extend to cruise altitude. The worst turbulence typically occurs in the first 30–60 minutes when the aircraft is climbing over the range.

The route is served by Delta Air Lines, Spirit Airlines on Boeing 737 · Airbus A319 aircraft, with flights typically cruising at 35,000 feet over a distance of 2,011 miles (1,748 nautical miles).

💡 Tip: Mountain wave turbulence hits early. If flying over Rockies, expect the first hour to be bumpy.

Turbulence levels on LAX–DTW

What to expect at each phase of the flight

SmoothDeparture & arrival — climb and descent phases are generally calm
LightMinor bumps — drink stays in your cup, walking feels slightly unsteady
ModerateNoticeable bumps — stay seated with seatbelt on, service may pause
HeavyStrong jolts — unsecured items move, crew seated. Rare but possible

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Best time to fly LAX–DTW

Turbulence by month

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Smooth
Light
Moderate
Rough

Best seat on LAX–DTW

Boeing 737

Front
Rows 1–9
Light
✓ Wing
Rows 10–20
Smoothest
Rear
Rows 21+
Rougher
Wing seats are over the center of gravity — least affected by turbulence.

What you'll see in the app

Full forecast, live map & seat recommendations

LAX to DTW turbulence forecast app
Flight turbulence tracker
Real-time turbulence map

Similar routes

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LAX → ATL
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LAX → PHL
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See all mountain routes →
All LAX routes→ All DTW routes→

Frequently asked questions

Is the Los Angeles to Detroit flight turbulent?
The LAX–DTW route typically experiences light turbulence. Moderate turbulence expected — fasten seatbelt when seated. The turbulence score for this route is 50/100.
When is turbulence worst on LAX to DTW?
Mountain wave turbulence hits early. If flying over Rockies, expect the first hour to be bumpy. Check the turbulence chart above for the typical pattern along this specific route.
Which seat is smoothest on LAX to DTW?
Wing seats are always the smoothest. On a Boeing 737 (the most common aircraft on this route), that's rows 10–20. Avoid the very rear of the aircraft — it amplifies turbulence motion.
How long is the flight from LAX to DTW?
The LAX to DTW flight takes approximately 4h 17m, covering 2,011 miles (1,748 nautical miles).
Which airlines fly LAX to DTW?
The main airlines operating this route are Delta Air Lines, Spirit Airlines, flying Boeing 737 · Airbus A319 aircraft.